African Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Development

Cardioprotective and antioxidant properties of the arils of the fruit of blighia sapidakd koenig (Sapindaceae) in Isoprenaline-induced myocardial infarction in Wistar rats

Hoomsuk Hubert Maigida, Nen'man Noel Wannang, Bukata Bayero Bukar — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction are major global health issues, with myocardial infarction becoming more common. In the current study, the cardioprotective effects of methanol extract from the aril of the Blighia sapida fruit were assessed in relation to certain cardiac function biomarkers, endogenous antioxidant activity, and the pathology of the heart in Wistar rats that had undergone isoprenaline-induced myocardial infarction. Phytochemical screening was according to methods described by Trease and Evans. The LD₅₀ of the extract was calculated using Lorke's approach. The LD₅₀ was calculated using nine (9) Wistar rats. For cardioprotective and antioxidant activities, six groups of seven Wistar rats each were formed from forty-two (42), which were divided at random. Group 1 were administered 1ml of normal saline daily, group 2 through 4 were pretreated with 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg of the extract, respectively, for 28 days. Group 5 were administered 85 mg/kg of isoprenaline on days 26 and 27, 24 hours apart to cause myocardial infarction. Group 6 served as the positive control (pretreated with 2 mg/kg carvedilol for 28 days). The plant contains bioactive substances like alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, cardiac glycosides, cyanogenic glycosides, steroid glycosides, cardenolides, terpenes, and tannins. No mortality even at a dose of 5000mg/kg. Glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase all show considerable increases. Total troponin, troponin c, troponin I, creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, and myoglobin, significantly decreased when compared to the isoprenaline group. Additionally, there was a significant drop in the levels of some biochemical markers in the extract treated groups compared to the isoprenaline control. Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low- density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and ALT, AST, and ALP significantly decreased. Histological analysis revealed some degree of cardiac modification and a notable improvement. According to the data, the extract contains modest antioxidant and cardioprotective characteristics.

Demethoxylated curcuminoids as antidiabetic complication drug leads – in silicostudies

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Curcuma longa is used traditionally in the treatment of diabetes and diabetic complications. Aldose Reductase (ALR2) inhibition is a plausible therapeutic strategy against diabetic complications. This work was aimed at evaluating Curcuma longa phytochemicals, in silico, for their ALR2 inhibitory potentials. Thirty-nine (39) phytoconstituents of Curcuma longa were subjected to a succession of in silico screenings comprising molecular docking, drug-likeness and safety profiling to identify ALR2 inhibitor leads, validating their binding interactions with molecular dynamics simulations at 50 ns simulation time. The in silico evaluations afforded two demethoxylated curcuminoids, bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin, as potential ALR2 inhibitor leads forming stable ALR2 complexes, their relative potencies correlating to their degrees of demethoxylation. The two curcuminoids are herein recommended as leads for the discovery of ALR2 inhibitory antidiabetic complication drug leads.

Assessment of the prevalence of depression and the use of antidepressants in a study population

Penaere Theresa Osahon, Emeka Elder Ogboin, Monday Ikponmwosa Osarenwinda — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that there is an increasing burden of depression and other mental health conditions globally. WHO global health estimate for depression reports a prevalence of 5.4% in Sub-Saharan Africa. Pharmacological therapy still remains the most popular treatment for diagnosed depression. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of clinically diagnosed depression and outcomes of antidepressants among final year undergraduate students in a Federal University. A descriptive cross- sectional study was carried out at University of Benin, Benin City. A validated questionnaire was distributed to the 319 final year clinical students of the College of Medicine, School of Dentistry and Faculty of Pharmacy. Data obtained were organized and analysed with Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics was done; frequencies and percentages were used to summarize variables of interest. Ethical considerations were observed. All the questionnaires used were valid for analysis. About 90.0% of the respondents were knowledgeable about depression. Symptoms of depression were reported in 20.0% of the respondents with 16.6% having moderate symptoms of depression and 3.4% having moderately severe symptoms of depression. The same 20.0% used antidepressants and 14.7% did not adhere to their regimen. Side effects were experienced by majority of respondents (16.3%) on antidepressants. There was a low prevalence of depression in the study population. Adherence to drug therapy was poor. Side effects to treatment were reported by majority of students receiving antidepressants. Majority of patients claim to be better now that they are using antidepressant treatment as the symptoms of the disease are resolving.

Quantitative determination of selected heavy metals and micronutrients in branded dairy products sold in Nigeria using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Quantitative analysis of heavy metals and nutrients in food helps indicate the safety and quality of food for final consumers. The present study was conducted to assess the presence of heavy metals (arsenic, copper, mercury, chromium, and lead) and the nutritional value of calcium in branded milk and yogurt to evaluate health risks for consumers. Ten (10) samples of branded milk and dairy products manufactured in Nigeria were purchased. The metal contents of the samples were determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The concentrations of calcium in the milk samples were between 9.33 ± 0.0023 and 18 ± 0.0071 ppm and were detected in all samples. Arsenic concentrations ranged from 0.45 ± 0.00042 to 2.48 ± 0.00064 ppm in eight branded samples but were undetected in two samples. Chromium levels were undetected in most samples, except for two with concentrations of 0.12±0.00049 ppm and 0.23±0.00021 ppm, respectively. Copper ranged from 0.032±0.00021 ppm to 0.129±0.00021 ppm in six samples. Mercury levels were detected in six samples at a concentration of 1.0±1.0 ppm. Lead concentrations ranged from 0.15±0.00064 to 0.29±0.00028 ppm in three samples. The study found heavy metals above the ideal concentration in branded milk and dairy products in Nigeria, highlighting the need for quality control measures during production to prevent contamination.

Phytochemical and anticonvulsant screening of three medicinal plants used in the treatment of epilepsy in the south-western part of Nigeria

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The burden of epilepsy in developing countries made medicinal plants like Xylopia aethiopica fruit; Khaya grandifoliola, Alstonia boonei etc an alternative source in epilepsy management in the south-western part of Nigeria. The aim of the study was to provide pharmacological rationale for the ethnomedicinal use of the plants in epilepsy management. The oral medial lethal dose of methanol stem bark extracts of Alstonia boonei (MEAB) and Khaya grandifoliola (MEKG) and methanol fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica (MEXAF) were done in accordance with the Organization for Economic Cooperation Development guideline. Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical profiling of the extracts was done. Anticonvulsant screening was carried out on the extracts (doses: 75, 150 and 300 mg/ kg) using the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure and maximum electroshock tests (MEST). Results showed that the MEXAF has the highest amount of phytochemicals except for saponins in MEKG; and MEAB with the least amount (but higher alkaloid) than MEKG. The TLC showed different bands of spots of the extracts. In the PTZ test, MEXAF showed 100 % protection against mortality at 300 mg/kg; MEAB with 66.67 % protection at 75 mg/kg and MEKG 0 % protection. MEAB, MEKG and MEXAF nonsignificantly increased the onset of seizure and latency to death. In the MEST, MEXAF, MEKG and MEAB at 75 mg/kg protected 50, 33.3 and 16.67% of the animals against tonic hind limb extension respectively and nonsignificantly (p˃0.05) decreased recovery time except MEXAF which significantly (p<0.05) decreased the recovery time at a dose of 75 mg/kg. It was concluded that the extracts possess anticonvulsant activities hence, the pharmacological credence for the ethnomedicinal use of these plants in treating epilepsy.

Blood glucose lowering effect of ethanol leaf extract of Hymenodictyon Floribundum (Rubiaceae)

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In developing countries, and some developed nations, diseases are managed using complementary medicine with the aid of preparations from a single or mixture of herbs. Diabetes mellitus, described by persistently high blood glucose levels, owing to abnormalities in insulin secretion, is among such disorders. Hymenodictyon floribundum has been reported to be used in ethnomedicine to manage diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the blood glucose-lowering activity of the ethanol extract of Hymenodictyon floribundum leaves in adult Wistar rats. Elemental analysis, preliminary phytochemical screening, and acute toxicity test were carried out. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed using five groups of adult Wistar rats administered graded doses (375, 750, and 1500 mg/kg) of the extract, distilled water (1 mL/kg) as negative control, and metformin (500 mg/kg) as positive control. Measurement of glucose levels in blood was performed at 0, 30, 60, and 120 minutes of extract administration, respectively. The result of the elemental analysis indicated the presence of Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Cr, Ni, and Pb. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed tannins, steroids, triterpenes, saponins, alkaloids, anthraquinones, and flavonoids. The Median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of the extract was estimated to be higher than 5000 mg/kg orally. The animals treated with the extract showed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in blood glucose levels compared to the negative control. Blood glucose levels dropped below baseline in the animals treated with the highest dose (1500 mg/ kg) of the extract. The study therefore revealed that Hymenodictyon floribundum has the potential to produce a blood glucose-lowering effect and corroborates the claim of antidiabetic activity of the plant.

Application of a hydrophilic biopolymer obtained from Pennisetum glaucum seed fibre as binder in Albendazole chewable tablet formulation

Nkemakolam Nwachukwu, Jessica Omeeram Kpokpowei — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Natural polymers with enhanced binding properties in tablet formulation continue to be highly sought over synthetic materials. This study aims to evaluate the binding properties of a hydrophilic biopolymer derived from the modification of the seed fibre of Pennisetum glaucum (TP) in the manufacture of albendazole chewable tablets. Dry TP seeds were steeped in water for 24h, washed, wet milled, and the fibre separated from the starch by washing slurry with water through a muslin cloth. Fibre of TP was dried at 60°C, screened through 180µm sieve (TP-NF). An 800 g of TPNF was dispersed in 3.0L of 3.5% w/v sodium hypochlorite for 30 min, washed with distilled water to neutral pH, dispersed in 90% v/v ethanol for 10 min and dried at 60°C (TP-MC). The fibre was classified (180µm) and characterised using standard methods. Albendazole tablets were formulated using 5, 7.5, 10 and 15% w/w of the biopolymers by wet granulation. Avicel PH 101 was used as comparing standard binder. The dried albendazole granules were micromeritically evaluated while tablets made from the granules were evaluated for their physical properties, assay and dissolution studies. TP-MC powder flowed and compressed better than TP-NF, while albendazole granules had better flow and compressibility than TP-NF and TPMC. The albendazole tablets were fairly strong and varied minimally in weight. Friability was <1%, and > 80% of albendazole was released from the tablets within 15 min. TP-MC served more effectively than TP-NF and compared favourably with Avicel PH 101 as binder in the formulation of albendazole tablets.

GC-MS analysis, cholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant potentials of Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq.) H.M. Hern (Fabaceae) root extracts

Joel Ojogbane Onoja, Julius Idowu Olawuni, Malachukwu Chibundu Umeokoli — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The age-related neurodegenerative illness known as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is typified by the unavoidable decline in cognitive function. Existing drugs has limitations, therefore there is an urgent need for new neurotherapeutic agents. There has been a lot of excitement in recent years about finding therapeutic herbs that can restore cognitive impairment due to their lower side effects. The aim of the study is to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant potentials of Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq.) H.M. Hern root extracts and also identify the bioactive molecules present. Ellman colorimetric assay was used to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory potentials of various extracts at 1 mg/mL. The antioxidant potentials of extracts were evaluated using in-vitro chemical analysis. GC-MS was used to identify bioactive molecules from most active extract. One-way ANOVA at α0.05 was adopted. Ethyl acetate extract showed the highest acetylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 0.149±0.00 mg/mL) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 0.393±0.02 mg/mL) inhibitory potential as compared to eserine for AChE (IC₅₀ = 0.051±0.01 mg/mL) and for BuChE (IC₅₀ = 0.049±0.00 mg/mL). Ethyl acetate extract also demonstrated its potential to chelate metals (IC₅₀ = 0.106±0.02 mg/mL) as compared to EDTA (IC₅₀ = 0.086±0.00 mg/mL). The DPPH radical scavenging potential was higher in ethyl acetate extract (IC₅₀ = 0.082±0.05 mg/mL) when compared to vitamin C (IC₅₀ = 0.008±0.00 mg/mL). The total antioxidant capacity of extracts revealed that ethyl acetate extract also has the highest concentration (125.5±14.3 mg/g AAE/g of extract (R²=0.9276)). The GC-MS analysis of ethyl acetate extract revealed the presence of 62 compounds which includes n-Hexadecanoic acid (RT 14.81, Area % 10.03), 9,12- Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (RT 15.97, Area % 10.03), cis-9-Hexadecenal (RT 16.01, Area % 8.36). The ethyl acetate extract from the root of Zapoteca portoricensis has the aptitude to prolong the half-life of acetylcholine by its ability to inhibit cholinesterase enzyme.

Distress associated with side effects of calcium channel blockers among a cohort of newly diagnosed with hypertension

Paul Otor Onah, Abdulateef Siyaka, Kennedy Emeka Oluigbo — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Antihypertensive therapy with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) is reported to be frequently associated with varying levels of distress due to their side effects. The severity of distress may result in patients intentionally interrupting or withdrawing from therapy. In clinical settings, distress from side effects of drug(s) are sometimes left unreported, overlooked or poorly resolved by clinicians. The aim of this study was to assess distress due to side effects of commonly prescribed CCB-based antihypertensive therapies.This was a prospective observational study among patients newly diagnosed with primary hypertension being treated with either CCB monotherapies or combination regimens as initial therapy. A total of 180 patients enrolled completed the eight week study and their data used in final analysis. The subjects were allocated into six treatment groups of 30 each and given either amlodipine 10mg, nifedipine 20mg, bendrofluthiazide (monotherapies) or their combinations with bendrofluthiazide 5mg or Lisinopril 5mg (dual therapies). The level of distress before and after initiation of therapy was compared using Students t test and P values ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Patients on dual therapies reported more side effects compared to monotherapies. The most commonly reported side effects included loss of libido (38% - 47%), pitting edema (28% - 35%), headache (26% - 36%), muscle cramps (9% - 18%) and fatigue (17% - 30%). Distress score of monotherapies (14.9) and dual therapies (15.3) was considered mild (< 25 threshold). There was significant reduction in distress with bowel upset (P = 0.001), insomnia (P = < 0.001), pain (P = 0.001), breathing difficulties (P = 0.009) and concentration for BDF containing regimen (P = 0.001). Distress among Lisinopril containing regimens involved appetite (P = 0.003), pain (P = 0.002) and fatigue (P = 0.003). Overall, distress due to side effects was mild for all the antihypertensive drug(s).

Unraveling the impact of electromagnetic radiation on human health: A comprehensive review

Abraham Ehinomhen Ubhenin, Joseph Isabona, Fatimah Anura, Ramatu Iya Idris — Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This comprehensive review examines the potential health effects of prolonged exposure to electromagnetic radiation, specifically from cell phones and base station transmitters. The study incorporates experimental and epidemiological research from reputable databases up to 2024 to assess the biological impacts of radiofrequency (RF) radiation on various organs and health outcomes. The mechanisms of electromagnetic radiation-induced damage include DNA damage, disruptions in the blood-brain barrier, oxidative stress, and effects on cognitive function and sleep. Potential risks, such as brain tumors, cancers, fertility issues, and neurological effects, are discussed. Safety measures by organizations like ICNIRP and WHO, public awareness campaigns, and natural remedies to reduce exposure are also addressed. Acknowledging limitations, the review calls for continued research and collaboration among stakeholders to consider new developments. Challenges related to base station transmitter exposure, including public concerns and regulatory compliance, are identified. In conclusion, the review emphasizes responsible decision-making and ongoing research to ensure the safe deployment of wireless technologies while protecting public well-being from electromagnetic radiation exposure. Implementation of safety guidelines is crucial for mitigating potential risks.

Physical assessment and atomic absorption spectrophotometric analysis of cadmium and lead in twenty-five brands of ciprofloxacin tablets marketed in Lagos, Nigeria

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Ciprofloxacin is a second-generation broad-spectrum antibiotic of the fluoroquinolone class, highly effective against many bacteria. Several brands of this drug class are marketed for public consumption; hence, it has placed the public in a confused state about the best brands with suitable physical characteristics and safe oral consumption. Additionally, the adverse effects of heavy metal accumulation in drugs for oral use have made it essential to quantify the amount of such heavy metals present. Evaluating the physical quality, elemental analysis identity, and concentration of cadmium and lead in twenty-five brands of ciprofloxacin tablets marketed in Lagos, Nigeria, is the aim of this study. The physical assessment of the tablets was then methodologically evaluated for these parameters; Uniformity of weight, Hardness, Friability, and Disintegration tests. Determining the amount of Cadmium and Lead with the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and evaluating using the Permitted Daily Exposure (PDE). Among all the brands of Ciprofloxacin tablets analyzed, 96 % passed the Uniformity of weight test, 52 % passed the Hardness test, 96 % passed the Friability test, and 96 % passed the disintegration test while 2 % passed the test according to the Permitted Daily Exposure (PDE) to Cadmium. 72 % passed the test according to the Permitted Daily Exposure (PDE) to Lead. The brands that passed the physical tests have good quality and correct physical characteristics. Cadmium and lead are of no benefit to humanity in the body and because they are not easily eliminated from the body, their buildup can put people at risk for mental retardation in children, dementia, kidney damage, nerve damage, infertility, high blood pressure, and cancer at high exposure levels.

Dissemination of diarrheagenic bacteria in community-based natural water sources and wastewater environments: A comprehensive analysis in University of Nigeria, Nsukka and its metropolis

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The presence of pathogenic strains abounds in our environment, arising from many sources. The study was aimed at identifying Vibrio species, E. coli, and other coliforms in various water sources within a university setting and its metropolis. Approximately 20 samples from roof-collected rainwater, municipal piped tap water, borehole water and 60 samples of sewage effluent from the central effluent water of University of Nigeria, Nsukka were systematically collected at intervals and subjected to bacteriological analysis. The samples underwent dilutions, and aliquots were inoculated on chromocult and thiosulfatecitrate-bile salts-sucrose (TCBS) agar. Simultaneously, 100 ml of each natural water sample underwent membrane filtration, followed by the inoculation of TCBS agar plates in duplicates. Both sets of culture plates were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. Further biochemical characterization was performed after microscopy. Susceptibility profile was done using disk diffusion assay. Descriptive statistics were used in the aggregation of the results where necessary. Results revealed that each sample, when plated on chromocult agar, yielded a substantial number of colonies of E. coli (bluish colour) and other coliforms (pink-red colonies). Notably, wastewater gave a maximum yield of Vibrio cholera. Conversely, all significant pathogenic Vibrio species were recovered on TCBS agar inoculated with natural water samples, wastewater and sewage effluent, with isolation rates appearing independent of both time (in weeks) and collection points. Antimicrobial susceptibility studies disclosed that some of the isolates exhibited antibiotic resistance. The study underscores the need to install appropriate measures to mitigate the contamination of the environment.

Evaluating the histopathological effect of amlodipine and valsartan on pioglitazone treated streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Two striking factors for cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, are diabetes and hypertension. More so, there is a significant overlap in the aetiology and progression of hypertension and diabetes, and there are documented findings that drugs used in the management of either disease conditions can act as a friend or foe in the treatment outcome of the other. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of valsartan and amlodipine on the histological features of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats treated with pioglitazone. Albino rats weighing 205 ± 45 g (mean ± SEM) were prevented from eating and drinking overnight while diabetes mellitus was induced by administering 40 mg/kg of streptozotocin intraperitoneally. Blood samples were taken 48-hour post induction. Animals were considered diabetic if their blood sugar level was≥ 200 mg/dl. The animals were grouped into control rats without treatment, untreated diabetic rats, and treatment groups, pioglitazone only, valsartan plus pioglitazone, and amlodipine plus pioglitazone. After 3 weeks of treatment, the animals were humanely sacrificed while the brain, lung, heart, kidney, and liver were harvested for histopathological analysis. Stained tissues were viewed by means of an optical photomicroscope at 100 x magnification. From the histological study, our findings suggest that valsartan enhanced the hypoglycemic effect of pioglitazone-treated diabetic rats compared to those treated with pioglitazone alone and those treated with amlodipine and pioglitazone combination.